While bed bug infestations in American homes are rare, they are on the increase. An uptick in world travel has helped contribute to the presence of bed bugs in America, as has the fact that the spraying of deadly DDT, once used in this country to eradicate the pest, is no longer permitted. The most common entryway for an invasion is when a traveler stays in an infested lodging, and brings the creatures home via luggage or clothing.
Where Bed Bugs Like to Congregate
Once bed bugs enter your home, they quickly establish themselves in places they can hide during the day, such as upholstery, furniture, drapes, carpets, bedframes and headboards, as well as as mattresses and box springs. In the night, when the lights go off, the bugs are attracted to warm-blooded creatures such as yourself. They crawl out of their hiding places and feed on your blood. The evidence of their presence is a red, somewhat itchy bite.
Bed bugs are found in some unlikely places, such as smoke monitors and hollow doors. It doesn't happen often, but they may also be found in an HVAC system, including vents and ductwork. In general, though the HVAC system and ductwork provide the requisite darkness, they prefer to be closer to their source of food.
Getting Rid of Bed Bugs
The best way to rid your home of bed bugs is to call an exterminator. Professional pest control technicians have the right equipment, chemicals and know-how to deal with these wily critters. It can take more than one application of pesticides to get rid of them, as they likely have laid eggs, which will hatch later.
It's important not to turn on the HVAC system when the pesticides are being administered. Also, it's not a good idea to have pesticides sprayed into your ducts and ventilation system. You may need to call an HVAC technician who can perform duct cleaning to get your ducts or vents free of bed bugs, should you have an infestation.
For more on bed bugs and your HVAC system, contact Air Assurance of Broken Arrow.